University spokesman Mark Hebert says the new contract was offered to give the university more time to fully explore possible partnerships between the arts and culture community and the university, including a presence downtown. Cowen will also raise money for new initiatives that arise from these collaborations.

He will be paid $150,000 from private funds for one year of work. The university is not announcing any formal plans or initiatives related to Cowen’s work at this time.

Cowen left the Fund for the Arts last year after a controversy over his gruff demeanor in dealing with several arts organizations.